District 2 race canceled

Longboat Key’s only contested commission race for the March 8 municipal election has been canceled.

Town Clerk Trish Granger received an e-mail from candidate Jack Jaret Tuesday, Dec. 7, withdrawing his name from consideration for the seat.

That Harbourside resident Jack Duncan is the only other qualified candidate and will be appointed to the seat in March when Mayor George Spoll departs because of term-limit requirements.

“When I filed for the seat I saw an urgent need for another commissioner with calm, consensus-building talents, one who would listen to all, learn, evaluate wisely and decide in a concise, clear presentation,” Jaret wrote. “Humbly I felt my many, many years as a business executive and a community leader would be helpful.

"I understand another candidate has filed, and I feel sure he will offer these talents and has the right stuff," he wrote. "The residents of Longboat Key do not need a prolonged, aggressive campaign for election and the cost of balloting. I am withdrawing my name and offer my support to Jack Duncan. My sincere thanks and gratitude to all who so kindly supported me.”

Contact Kurt Schultheis at [email protected].